The Dark
Hedges, Northern Ireland

The legendary and supernatural-looking
intertwined rows of ancient beech trees that Arya and Gendry rode through in
Season 2 of Game of Thrones exists. It's
one of the most distinctive backdrops in Game of Thrones. The Dark Hedges should have
stuck in your head, yes same with me.

As a matter of
fact, it’s in Northern Ireland. This archway of serpentine trees draws tens of
thousands of visitors. My Irish friend and travel guide mentioned that this
avenue was planted by the Stuart family
in the late 18th century, a stunning lead-up to the then Gracehill House. The main
purpose is just to give emphasis to the entrance to their house.The tallest and longest hedge in the world, according to Guinness World Records, is the Meikleour Beech Hedge in Meikleour, Perth and Kinross, Scotland. The hedge is trimmed only once every ten years. However, the one in Northern Ireland is one of the most filmed.

Legend has it that
these eerie trees are said to be haunted by the shade of the Grey Lady. Haunted by awesome goosebumps,
yes that one too. Even in broad daylight, walking here feels as if there’s some
faint paranormal music playing somewhere nearby.

Walking along the Dark Hedges in a slow sundown, seeing all of its flesh and unphotoshopped nakedness, is a sight to witness. Feels like you’re stuck in time and space, and all that’s left with you are your mind’s music and musings.

Another matter of fact, once you go visit the Dark Hedges, you’ll probably want to watch and re-watch the Game of Thrones series with this episode on just to see the semblance, yes same with me. It’s one of those must go places when in Northern Ireland. I’m still thinking how come this didn’t make the cut as a UNESCO Heritage Site, because it could qualify as one – yes?

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Bowdy is an amateur adventurer, a coffee sleepyhead, and a start-up rooter, with a penchant for classic-looking photos. At last count, he has visited some 53 countries, and is now living in Singapore. He's always in search of fascinating routines to exploit, within the edges of after-office hours and (un)limited holidays.